Fujimigahara (“Fuji-view Fields") in Owari Province

Catalog note / 解説

This print is best known for its bold, interesting composition that uses simple geometric forms. In the foreground, a huge tub is being made; inside it, a man works intently at sealing its seams. A tiny Fuji appears in the far distance, framed in the circle of the tub and across a plain of rice fields. Setting aside his usual interest in minute details, Hokusai here composes a design with only a few elements: bushes, a tree, the gigantic tub, the cooper with his tool box, saw, and hammers. The tub’s circle is repeated by the circular split-bamboo strips for hoops, lying on the ground. The small triangle of Mount Fuji provides a contrast in shape and size. Rows of rectangular rice fields con…